This post is sponsored by Ulta Beauty.
If you’re like me, the last thing you want to do before a trip is give up your skincare or makeup routine just because you’re not at home. Let’s be honest—traveling often means sacrificing your favorite products because not everything is easy (or even possible) to squeeze into those tiny refillable bottles.
That’s why I love finding my go-to, high-quality beauty products in mini sizes, so I never have to compromise my routine just because I’m packing light.
I’m obsessed with Ulta’s travel minis section, and right now it’s even better; Ulta is running a Buy One Get One Free sale on select mini products.
10 Travel-Size Beauty Favorites I Always Pack
These are the travel-friendly products I never leave home without. Each one has earned a spot in my carry-on, from skincare to makeup to hair care. These are the SheBuysTravel-approved must-haves.
1. TULA The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser
I never board a flight without this face cleanser. Travel (especially flying) is tough on skin, but this gentle gel cleanser removes dirt, makeup, and sunscreen without drying me out. I’ve worked hard to build a consistent skincare routine, and I’m not giving that up when I travel.
Why I love it:
- Balances skin (no post-flight oil slicks or dry patches)
- TSA-approved 1 oz size
- Smells fresh but subtle
- I own the full travel set, and it’s worth it!
Shop it here →
2. Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
This moisturizer is my airplane skin savior. It locks in hydration (even in recycled cabin air…gross) and works for all skin types.
Why it’s in my bag:
- Keeps skin plump and fresh while traveling
- Won’t clog pores (huge bonus for me)
- Mini size lasts longer than you’d think
Grab it here →
3. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 Mini
Sun protection is non-negotiable for me, but sticky sunscreen? No thanks. This one is invisible, weightless, and works as a makeup primer. I’ve been using it for a while now and it’s my personal go-to pick.
Travel-friendly perks:
- No white residue (even on deeper skin tones)
- TSA-friendly size
- Works under foundation
Shop now →
4. IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Mini
Whether I’m running to catch a flight or heading out for dinner in a new city, this CC+ cream evens out my skin without feeling heavy. I’ve always felt more comfortable with a CC cream that adds full coverage without feeling cakey or like I have heavy amounts of makeup on my face.
Why I pack it:
- Full coverage but natural finish
- SPF 50 built-in
- Saves space by replacing multiple products
Shop IT Cosmetics minis →
5. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Mini
Mascara is the one thing that instantly makes me feel put together. This one is my go-to for volume and curl, no lash curler needed. I never leave the house without mascara on, so I’ve tested plenty of brands, and this one is THE ONE for me.
Why it’s worth it:
- Doesn’t smudge
- Dramatic lashes in one swipe
- Tiny but mighty
Get it here →
6. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo Mini
When I’m skipping the hotel shampoo (which is…always), this dry shampoo saves me. It actually cleans my hair, not just perfumes it. I don’t always have the luxury of a hot shower on long travel days to help me feel refreshed, so I keep this tiny best friend with me at all times.
Why I love it for travel:
- Absorbs oil without buildup
- Refreshes hair post-flight
- Perfect size for a weekend trip
Shop the mini here →
7. Olaplex No. 4 and No. 5 Minis
If you color your hair like I do, you already know, Olaplex is the holy grail. These mini bottles keep my hair healthy and I’m always getting compliments on how soft my hair feels. The shampoo and conditioner are both fantastic!
Why you’ll love them:
- Repairs and protects
- Saves your blowout
- Small size, big results
Shop Olaplex minis →
8. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Mini
Waterproof mascara, long-wear lipstick, you name it, this balm melts it off gently. No tugging or scrubbing. I’ve been using Clinique products for more than 20 years and this is one of my favorites.
Why I take it everywhere:
- Travel-safe solid formula
- Won’t spill in your bag
- Works for sensitive skin
Get yours here →
9. Tarte Sea Power Flex Desert Island Duo Blush & Bronzer Stick Mini
This blush and bronzer stick is my new favorite way to add some life back to my face after a long flight or day out exploring. It’s compact, creamy and super easy to apply on the go. The duo stick means I don’t have to pack multiple products to get that sun-kissed look.
Why I love it:
- Blush and bronzer in one stick
- Blendable and buildable for a natural glow
- Perfect size for travel (no brushes required)
Shop the mini here →
10. Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm Mini
I end every makeup routine with this lip balm. It’s the perfect mix of color and hydration – no cracked lips, and no need to pack extra lipstick. I have to keep my lips hydrated or I start to pick at them unintentionally so I use this lip balm obsessively.
Why I love it:
- Adds a natural glossy tint
- Ultra-hydrating (no chapped lips mid-flight)
- Easy to swipe on, no mirror needed
Shop the mini here →
Minis are Not Just for Travel
Even if you’re not planning an upcoming trip, this BOGO mini sale is the perfect way to try new products without committing to the full-size price tag. I love using Ulta’s travel section as a way to test high-end products before I invest in the larger version. It’s like building your beauty wishlist, but smarter.
Why I Shop Ulta (Not Amazon) for Travel Minis
I know it’s tempting to grab travel-size products from random online marketplaces, but here’s why I always choose Ulta:
- BOGO sales like this one cut the price in half.
- Ulta’s points program actually gives me money back. I use the app to track my points, and I’ve redeemed them for free products more than once!
- Ulta carries my favorite high-end brands, but with promotions that keep the price way below what I’d pay elsewhere.
- I trust the quality. No worrying about knock-offs or expired products when I shop at Ulta.
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